Headline Writing: The Sprint Intervals of Copywriting

How Great Headlines Work (No Complicated Equipment Needed)

Writing headlines that work is like setting up a simple workout routine:

• Grab attention fast

  • Start with something that makes people stop scrolling

• Show clear value

  • Tell readers exactly what they'll get

• Create curiosity 

  • Leave them wanting to know more

The best headlines, just like the best workouts, cut out all the fluff. Make every word count.

Think of content creation as a long run. Your headline? That's your quick sprint—short, powerful, and packs a punch. Just like those intense workout intervals that get your heart pumping in just minutes, a great headline does the heavy lifting for your entire piece in just a few words.

Why Headlines Are Just Like HIIT Workouts

Both Headlines and HIIT workouts are short but make a massive impact. Without strong headlines, you won’t get readers to buy in and continue reading about what you can offer. 

HIIT workouts are interval workouts for a reason, you plan your workout ahead of time and make sure you’re dialed in once the workout starts. In the same way your headlines can’t be all over the place. Give it some thought, if your 10-year-old little cousin (Teaching to Learn principle)  can’t tell what your writing about, then try again.

5 Headline Templates You Can Use Today

• The Personal Win
  Template: "How I [Did X] in [Z Time Frame]"
  Example: "How I Doubled My Email Open Rate in 7 Days—Without Breaking a Sweat"

•  The Quick Fix
  Template: "[#] Ways to [Get Result] in [Short Time]"
  Example: "5 Ways to Beef Up Your Brand Voice in Just 15 Minutes a Day"

• The Form Check
  Template: "The [Type of] Mistake That's [Bad Result]"
  Example: "The Simple Headline Mistake That's Killing Your Clicks"

• The Surprise Move
  Template: "[Unexpected Fact] That Will Change Your [Activity]"
  Example: "This Backwards Approach Will Change How You Write Headlines"

• The Full Program
  Template: "The [Simple] Guide to [What You Want]"
  Example: "The 30-Day Guide to Headlines That Actually Work"

Just like you shouldn't do sprints daily, save your best headline techniques for when they count. Use these high-impact formulas when needed most, and watch your content perform stronger every time.

Practice these headline templates like you'd practice your workout routine. You won't see results from one rep or one headline. It's about showing up, putting in the work, and watching as your copy gets stronger with each headline you write.

“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit." – Aristotle